Rum Cake

12 servings Prep: 15 m Cook: 40 m Total: 1 h 5 m Beginner
5.0/5 (1)
Rum Cake
This recipe was submitted in memory of my grandma, Ida Legnion; it was her favorite cake, and mine. Almost everyone loves this rum cake made with Duncan Hines yellow cake mix, vanilla pudding, pecans, and rum flavoring. Not too sweet and freezes well. I’ve used this recipe to raise money for many fund raisers. This cake is also better the next day, so make it ahead if you can. It also freezes well, so have one on hand to bring to a sick friend or just to cheer someone up!

Ingredients

12 servings
  • 1 box Duncan Hines yellow cake mix (no substitutes)
  • 1 small box instant vanilla pudding mix
  • 4 eggs
  • 3/4 cup vegetable oil
  • 3/4 cup water
  • 2 tsp rum flavoring
  • 1/2 stick butter (no substitutes)
  • 3 tbsp water
  • 2 tsp rum flavoring
  • 1 1/2 cup sifted confectioners sugar
  • 1 cup chopped pecans

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
  2. Mix the yellow cake mix, instant vanilla pudding, eggs, vegetable oil, 3/4 cup water and 2 tsp rum flavoring for about 2 minutes.
  3. Pour into a well-oiled tube pan and bake for 35-40 minutes, until cake springs back when touched lightly in center.
  4. While cake is baking, make the topping: Add 1/2 stick of butter and 3 tbsp water in small pan over low heat.
  5. When butter has melted, add 2 tsp rum flavoring, 1 1/2 cups sifted confectioners sugar and 1 cup chopped pecans. Stir to combine and remove from heat before it boils.
  6. Pour mixture over hot cake in pan. Let stand for 10 minutes, then invert cake on a plate and turn over again on another plate so pecans will be on top.

Common Problems and Solutions

Q: Why does the recipe specify Duncan Hines and no substitutes?

A: After years of making this recipe, the family found Duncan Hines produces the most reliable texture and rise. Other brands may work but results can vary.

Q: Can I use a different pan instead of a tube pan?

A: A bundt pan works well. Adjust baking time and watch for doneness - the cake should spring back when lightly touched in the center.

Tips and Techniques

Make this cake a day ahead for best flavor - it really does taste better the next day as the rum flavor mellows and penetrates the cake. The cake freezes beautifully for up to 3 months; thaw at room temperature before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • rum flavoring: 1/4 cup dark rum
  • Duncan Hines yellow cake mix: another brand of yellow cake mix
  • pecans: walnuts

Equipment Needed

  • Tube pan or bundt pan
  • Electric mixer
  • Small saucepan (for topping)

Historical Context

Rum cakes became popular throughout the South in the mid-20th century, combining the convenience of cake mixes with the festive flavor of rum. This recipe has raised money for countless Louisiana fund raisers and brought comfort to friends during difficult times.